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Clinical Psychologist Schooling

HOW TO BECOME A Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychology offers a broad range of options to anyone interested in improving the mental and emotional well being of others. This field requires excellent analytical and communication skills, and a strong commitment to patient care. While this specialization calls for in-depth professional training and ongoing continuing education, it can also reward its practitioners with a great deal of satisfaction. Before choosing to commit to the career path of a clinical psychologist, an individual would be wise to consider a number of important questions, including: How many years will I have to devote to formal education and training? What are the licensing and certification requirements for practice? Do I need to choose an area of specialization, and if so, what are my choices?

The following guide is designed to help prospective students decide if a career in clinical psychology is right for them. Facts, figures and other useful information are available below regarding clinical psychology, including sections on educational and training requirements, tools for selecting a school or degree program, and a list of suggested steps one might take in establishing a successful career path.

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Clinical Psychology Career Basics

Generally speaking, clinical psychologists work with individuals who are experiencing emotional problems regarding difficult life transitions and discrete traumatic events. They differ from psychiatrists, medical doctors who may prescribe medication as part of their treatment plan. Clinical psychologists employ a variety of techniques and therapies to assess and treat emotional and behavioral issues.

Clinical psychologists are often employed by hospitals or mental health facilities, both public and private, or alternatively, they can choose to establish their own private practices. Some clinical psychologists offer generalized services to the community as a whole, while many others opt to limit their practice to one of a number of subspecialties. Teachers and professors develop classroom curriculum, teach courses, proctor exams, and help guide students toward academic success.

Clinical Psychology In-Depth

According to the Society of Clinical Society, the work of professionals in the field can be broken into two categories.

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It's Interesting

Dr. Edmund W. Gordon (born 1921 in Goldsboro, North Carolina), a professor of psychology, "had a tremendous influence on contemporary thinking in psychology, education and social policy and the implications of his work for the schooling of lower status youth and...